GP appointment to ask for assessment

Well done, by the sound of it, you have got past the gate keeper! To know that a health care professional believes you I found to be at least partly confirming and eased some of my imposter syndrome. Onwards and upwards.

Amazing news! Sounds like a really positive appointment and like your GP really listened to you. When I was first referred, I was told there was an 18 month waiting list however I received my assessment within a couple of months. My friend who lives in a different area was also referred and was told it would be a 3 year wait, but she was also seen within a few months.

Update in case it helps anyone. GP was more interested in my summary of why I think I have autism, what I'm struggling with, and why I want a diagnosis than my AQs, although the AQ10 has been scanned into my notes along with my written statement. Sounds like I'm getting a referral! Although he did warn it might take ages.

Yes definitely do! Good luck for Monday

Yay congrats! The ball is rolling in the right direction.

I'd take a list, if you write everything on your mind now you can show them on the day. It will help reduce the anxiety as well.

Best of luck!

Monday! I hardly spoke at all during primary school (I was sent to a speech therapist but that didn't really help) so I'm definitely going to bring that up too.

I would absolutely include all of that. Unfortunately, most health services perceive autism from a deficit model so your best chance of having a referral accepted it to focus on 'deficits' or difficulties. 

You can definitely bring up the education aspect even though it was 12 years ago - something they will also look for is if these difficulties have been present throughout your life as autism is something you always have from birth, not something you develop later on, so talking about past difficulties will only add to your case. 

Do let me know how you get on! When are you speaking to your GP?

Thanks, that's interesting. It doesn't affect my work, but that's because I chose my freelance career based around my autism. When AI replaces the work I currently do, I doubt I'll be able to get a job.

I dropped out of education due to social difficulties and no accommodations. That was 12 years ago. Can I bring it up?

I lose a lot of sleep worrying about being homeless, not because of lack of work but because I find it very difficult to communicate well enough with any service (e.g. letting agents) to get the desired outcome. I can't process info over a phone which is a big part of the problem.

Socially I think I do OK but I'm estranged from family with only one close friend. I'm brilliant at making acquaintances (can get chatting to anyone) but don't keep relationships because they get confusing.

I think I'll write all this out on a sheet of paper so I can bring it.

I'm not sure if this applies to every area, but certainly where I am the diagnostic team wouldn't accept a referral unless you described how it negatively impacted your daily life. 

The first referral my GP made was rejected because she hadn't written that it impacts my work, studies and social life. I then contacted the diagnostic team and provided more information about the difficulties I face. 

It didn't feel good to have to spell out the difficulties you have, but that's what I found I had to do to get the referral accepted.

They will probably ask you why you think you are autistic.  I had some notes ready but handed them in as it was easier than explaining verbally.

Hi, maybe make a list of the things that affect you, it’s quite easy to seize and not remember. Be firm and start with,” I strongly believe that I’m autistic.”   Only my opinion and good luck.